The Skoda Rapid Spaceback 1.2 TSI, produced from 2013 to 2015, is a five-door hatchback that represented Skoda’s entry into the compact segment, primarily aimed at the European market. Positioned as a more practical and affordable alternative to rivals like the Volkswagen Golf and Ford Focus, the Rapid Spaceback offered a spacious interior and a versatile cargo area within a relatively compact footprint. It was essentially a hatchback derivative of the Rapid sedan, designed to appeal to buyers seeking a blend of functionality and value. While not officially sold in the United States, understanding its specifications provides insight into the European small car market of the early 2010s and Skoda’s engineering approach.
Skoda Rapid Spaceback 1.2 TSI: An Overview
The Rapid Spaceback was designed to fill a gap in Skoda’s lineup, offering a hatchback body style that wasn’t previously available. It distinguished itself with a focus on practicality, boasting one of the largest cargo capacities in its class. The 1.2 TSI engine variant, equipped with a start/stop system, was a popular choice due to its balance of fuel efficiency and adequate performance for everyday driving. The Spaceback aimed to provide a sensible and economical option for families and individuals needing a versatile vehicle for urban and occasional long-distance travel.
Engine & Performance
The Skoda Rapid Spaceback 1.2 TSI is powered by a 1.2-liter, inline-four cylinder gasoline engine, designated the EA111 / CBZA. This engine utilizes direct fuel injection and is equipped with a turbocharger and intercooler to enhance power output and efficiency. It produces 86 horsepower at 4800 rpm and 160 Nm (118.01 lb.-ft.) of torque between 1500 and 3500 rpm. This engine is coupled with a five-speed manual transmission, driving the front wheels. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes 11.7 seconds, while 0 to 60 mph is achieved in approximately 11.1 seconds. The vehicle has a maximum speed of 180 km/h (111.85 mph). The engine’s power-to-weight ratio is 13.4 kg/Hp, and its torque-to-weight ratio is 7.2 kg/Nm. The inclusion of a Start & Stop system contributes to improved fuel economy in urban driving conditions.
Design & Features
The Rapid Spaceback is a five-door hatchback with a relatively conservative and functional design. Its exterior styling prioritizes practicality over flamboyant aesthetics. The interior is designed to maximize space, offering comfortable seating for five passengers. A key feature of the Rapid Spaceback is its generous cargo capacity. With the rear seats up, the trunk offers 415 liters (14.66 cu. ft.) of space, which expands to a substantial 1380 liters (48.73 cu. ft.) when the rear seats are folded down. Safety features included ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) as standard. The vehicle’s dimensions are 4304 mm (169.45 in.) in length, 1706 mm (67.17 in.) in width, and 1459 mm (57.44 in.) in height. The wheelbase measures 2602 mm (102.44 in.).
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Skoda |
| Model | Rapid |
| Generation | Rapid Spaceback |
| Type (Engine) | 1.2 TSI (86 Hp) start/stop |
| Start of production | 2013 |
| End of production | 2015 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 5.9 l/100 km (39.9 US mpg, 47.9 UK mpg, 16.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.3 l/100 km (54.7 US mpg, 65.7 UK mpg, 23.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.9 l/100 km (48 US mpg, 57.6 UK mpg, 20.4 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 114 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 11.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 11.1 sec |
| Maximum speed | 180 km/h (111.85 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 13.4 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.2 kg/Nm |
| Power | 86 Hp @ 4800 rpm |
| Torque | 160 Nm @ 1500-3500 rpm (118.01 lb.-ft. @ 1500-3500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | EA111 / CBZA |
| Engine displacement | 1197 cm3 (73.05 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | OHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.9 l (4.12 US qt | 3.43 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 7 l (7.4 US qt | 6.16 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1150 kg (2535.32 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1610 kg (3549.44 lbs.) |
| Max load | 460 kg (1014.13 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 415 l (14.66 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1380 l (48.73 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 55 l (14.53 US gal | 12.1 UK gal) |
| Length | 4304 mm (169.45 in.) |
| Width | 1706 mm (67.17 in.) |
| Height | 1459 mm (57.44 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2602 mm (102.44 in.) |
| Front track | 1463 mm (57.6 in.) |
| Rear track | 1500 mm (59.06 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 134 mm (5.28 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.9 m (35.76 ft.) |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Semi-independent, coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Number of gears | 5 |
| Gearbox type | Manual transmission |
| Tires size | 185/60 R15; 215/45 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 6.0J x 15; 7.0J x 16 |
The Skoda Rapid Spaceback 1.2 TSI, while not a performance car, offered a practical and economical solution for buyers in the European market. Its spacious interior, generous cargo capacity, and fuel-efficient engine made it a compelling choice in the competitive compact hatchback segment. The vehicle’s engineering reflects Skoda’s commitment to providing value and functionality in a well-rounded package.
